This fresh kale salad is bursting with juicy peaches and sweet blueberries! It’s a perfect mix of flavors and colors, making it a feast for your eyes and taste buds.
I love how quick it is to whip up this salad. Just toss the ingredients together and you have a light, healthy meal that feels like summer on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kale: Look for fresh, vibrant kale. I love using Lacinato (Dinosaur) kale for its tender leaves. If you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute with baby spinach or even arugula.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches steal the show! If they’re out of season, nectarines or plums make a great swap. You could also use canned peaches if they’re packed in juice.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are the best, but if they’re unavailable, frozen blueberries work too; just add them directly from the freezer without thawing.
Pumpkin Seeds: These add a nice crunch. If you’re looking for alternatives, sunflower seeds or chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts are tasty substitutes.
Honey or Maple Syrup: For a vegan option, maple syrup is perfect. You can also skip the sweetener if you prefer a less sweet salad.
How Do You Properly Massage Kale?
Massaging kale helps break down its tough fibers and makes it tender to eat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice directly onto the kale.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Use your hands to gently rub and squeeze the kale for about 2-3 minutes.
- Stop when the leaves are darker in color and softer to the touch.
This technique not only makes the kale more enjoyable but also helps it absorb the dressing better, enhancing the salad’s overall taste! Enjoy your salad!
Easy Summer Peach and Blueberry Kale Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups kale leaves, washed and chopped (stems removed)
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and diced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy option for lunch or dinner on a warm day. It’s a perfect dish to enjoy right away or let the flavors sit for a bit in the fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Kale:
Start by placing the washed and chopped kale into a large salad bowl. This is the base of your salad, so you want to make sure it’s nice and fresh!
2. Adding the Dressing:
Next, drizzle the olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the kale. Season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will add flavor and help soften the kale.
3. Massaging the Kale:
Now, it’s time to massage! With clean hands, gently rub the kale for about 2-3 minutes. This helps break down the tougher fibers, making it softer and easier to eat. You’ll notice it will turn a darker shade as it softens.
4. Mixing in the Fruits:
Once the kale is ready, add the diced peaches and fresh blueberries right into the bowl. These will bring in that wonderful sweetness and color!
5. Sweetening it Up:
If you like a touch of sweetness, drizzle the honey or maple syrup over the salad. It enhances the flavors beautifully!
6. Tossing the Salad:
Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is nicely combined. You want each bite to have a bit of everything!
7. Adding Crunchy Toppings:
Finally, sprinkle the pumpkin seeds over the top. They add a delightful crunch to the salad, making it even more enjoyable!
8. Serving:
You can serve the salad immediately, or if you have time, let it chill in the fridge for a little while to meld the flavors together. Either way, it’s going to be delicious!
This salad is bright, fresh, and perfect for summer with juicy peaches, sweet blueberries, and hearty kale, complemented by crunchy pepitas and a light, tangy dressing. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Greens Instead of Kale?
Absolutely! While kale adds heartiness to the salad, you can substitute it with baby spinach, arugula, or even mixed greens for a milder flavor. Just be sure to adjust the amount of dressing, as softer greens might absorb it differently.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
To keep the salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 1-2 days. Note that the kale may wilt slightly, but it will still taste great! If you have leftover dressing, store it separately and add it just before serving.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. Consider adding sliced almonds, feta cheese, or even grilled chicken for added protein. Chopped herbs like mint or basil can also enhance the flavor profile.
What’s the Best Way to Ripen Peaches Quickly?
If your peaches are hard, place them in a paper bag at room temperature for 1-2 days. This traps ethylene gas, which speeds up the ripening process. Once they’re ripe, keep them in the fridge to maintain freshness!
